Your yard and garden may be covered with snow, but in some parts of the world homeowners are getting ready for a new planting season. (See my previous blog.) If you happen to be one of them I’m sure the prospect of cultivating delicate blossoms is quite exciting. For those of you who are currently staring at a dormant garden, consider tucking away these simple and affordable garden tips for the spring thaw.
Save Money—Chuck the Containers
When transporting a plant from the garden shop to your backyard, don’t waste money on its container. A burlap wrap will do fine for the short trip home.
Cheap Containers
I adore the look of a large ceramic containers complete with fancy pottery glaze, but the reality is—I can’t afford them. If you want to proudly display your plant on a deck or patio rather than your backyard consider getting creative with containers. Anything that’s sturdy and with drainage holes can turn into a plant container. In a previous blog I recounted seeing some gardeners use old gas grills, wagons, vintage baby carriages, and old milk jugs as plant containers.
Rent Yard Equipment
If your lawn needs aerating I would consider borrowing or renting a rototiller or a lawn aerator; rather than forking over a ton of money for a tool you won’t use more than a few times (at best) a year. Better yet–see whether your neighbors want to go in on the deal. You can save a lot of money by sharing a rental.
Look For Sales
End-of-the-season sales at lawn and garden stores are a frugal gardener’s dream come true. You can score big, but you should also be aware that your bargain could be a bust if you don’t ask a few key questions. First, ensure you are not getting a “runt” plant. Then inquire with workers as to whether it is still okay to plant your specific purchase. I have made the mistake of buying plants too late in the season and they ended up dying because of frost. One more tip: shop where the retailer will guarantee plants. It may cost a little more upfront, but you’ll get your money back if the plants perish through no fault of your own.
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